Ocimene

In this chapter, we break down the ocimene terpene group. What are ocimenes, what do they smell and taste like, and do they have any benefits? Read on for these answers and more.

What is Ocimene?

A common misconception is that ocimene (pronounced “oh-sih-meen”) is a single terpene. In reality, ocimenes are a group of terpenes with the same chemical makeup, just arranged in slightly different positions. The specific types of ocimene commonly found in cannabis are:

• cis-β-ocimene
• trans-β-ocimene
• allo-ocimene

For simplicity, this group is colloquially referred to by the singular base term “ocimene”, which causes the confusion. Ocimenes are actually among the top eight most common terpenes found in North American cannabis, particularly in CBD-dominant varieties.

Still, ocimenes are actually more abundant in other plants, such as:

• Mint
• Parsley
• Allspice
• Tarragon
• Basil
• Orchids
• Pepper
• Mangoes

Terpene Flavor and Aroma Profile: Ocimene

Ocimene has an herbaceous, woody flavor and aroma, with notes of sweetness and hints of citrus. Thanks to its delightful smell, ocimene is a monoterpene additive found in perfumes, colognes, and other cosmetics.

Research shows that ocimene contributes to plants’ natural defense mechanisms, helping them fend off pests as a sap component. Plants containing ocimene secrete oils in sap that act as a deterrent to harmful crop pests like aphids. This is similar to flowers secreting citrus oil to ward off mosquitoes.

Cultivars with the Terpene Ocimene

Ocimene content tends to vary more than other terpenes, but these cultivars tend to have an above-average amount of it:

• Dutch Treat
• Durban Poison
• Amnesia
• Dream Queen
• Golden Pineapple
• Jack Herer
• OG Kush
• Clementine
• Sour Diesel
• Strawberry Cough
• Chocolope

While it’s rarely a cultivar’s primary terpene, it can often show up as a second or third. CBD-dominant varieties also tend to have higher ocimene profiles.

Does Ocimene Get You High?

Until recently, we used to think that all terpenes were non-psychoactive. However, there is some emerging research basis that shows many common cannabis terpenes can activate CB1 by themselves – including ocimene. CB1 is normally activated by THC, causing a euphoric high and cognitive effects.

This groundbreaking research also suggests this effect is dose dependent, and terpenes like ocimene can increase or potentiate the effects of THC at the CB1 receptor. This kind of synergy gives further credence to the “entourage effect”. A phrase essentially meaning the effects of the whole plant is greater than the sum of its parts.

Since no one’s ingested pure ocimene in a research study (not recommended), we've never been able to figure this out before. Note, it's not safe to take pure, synthetic, or concentrated terpenes by themselves because they constitute natural cleaners, detergents, and can cause serious issues if ingested in higher-than-natural quantities.

Potential Benefits of Ocimene

There is a lack of studies conducted specifically on ocimene in cannabis. This is because it can be difficult to isolate individual terpenes, and dangerous to give concentrated terpenes. There are a few studies done on ocimene derived from other plants, though.

In preliminary studies, ocimene is significantly included but not the main terpene, making it hard to parse specific effects. Ocimene possibly contributes effects like:

• Anti-inflammatory
• Antioxidant
• Antibacterial
• Antifungal
• Anticonvulsant
• Anxiolytic
• Antihypertensive
• Antidiabetic
• Antitumor in test tube and mice models

What We Learned: Ocimene

Ocimene is misunderstood, understudied, often overlooked. However, its woody, sweet, citrusy flavor and aroma are delightful; consuming cultivars that contain this terpene is a great experience. Here’s what we learned about ocimene in this chapter:

• Ocimene is more prevalent elsewhere in the natural world and perfumes than in cannabis.
• Plants rich in ocimene include mint, parsley, allspice, tarragon, basil, orchids, pepper, mangoes, and more.
• Research shows ocimene acts as part of a plant’s natural defense mechanism, helping them fend off pests.
• Cultivars like Dutch Treat, Amnesia, Dream Queen, Golden Pineapple, Jack Herer, and Clementine contain terpenes like ocimene.
• Ocimene may synergize with THC at CB1 to increase the high.
• Limited, preclinical-only studies indicate ocimene may have promising anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and antifungal properties.

As we continue to see cannabis research progress forward, we could see the known benefits of terpenes like ocimene increase.

Ready to continue your quest for cannabis knowledge? Answer the question below and continue your journey of learning.